Five ways to deal with common parking problems in your strata property

Has someone taken your parking spot? Want to know how to resolve parking issues?

When it comes to shared parking spaces in strata managed properties, there could be all kinds of issues. While most property owners abide by the rules and by-laws, others may be oblivious if they are new to the building or if they’re guests. To help maintain harmony with your neighbours, here are five ways to deal with some of the most common parking problems in strata managed properties:

1. If you are expecting visitors

If you’re having guests over, show them where the designated visitors parking area is or make other arrangements beforehand. If there’s a parking shortage, you should consider addressing concerns with your strata manager who can speak to the committee on your behalf.

2. If someone has parked on common property

When someone has parked on common property or in another owner’s car space, it is a breach of by-laws. If someone continues to breach by-laws, the matter should be taken to the committee. The committee has a responsibility to ensure all occupants (and their guests) comply with the by-laws. The committee may decide to issue notices or to erect warning signs and barriers.

3. If the by-laws are not clear enough

In some states, the committee may change the by-laws for parking by majority owner approval. A committee member can raise a motion to create or modify a by-law and a decision will be made at the annual general meeting (AGM).

4. If you are given a parking violation warning

In the event of a first time violation, the committee may decide to issue a verbal warning but if by-laws continue to be breached, the owners corporation may decide to take alternative steps. For example, in some states local councils offer parking services and agreements for a fee. This would mean council rangers would have the power to issue fines.

5. If a parked vehicle is obstructing exits

PICA Group advises against towing in all Australian states. If a vehicle is towed and damaged in the process, the owners corporation may be held liable. However, when a vehicle is obstructing important entry and exit points, such as, emergency exits, the local council or the police may need to be involved. Obstructing these points could cause potential health and safety risks in the event of an emergency.